Ensuring there are equal opportunities for her daughter is a driving force behind Alicia Molik.
The Australian tennis star spoke at Fremantle’s International Women’s Day luncheon at Crown on Thursday and spoke about the ‘obstacles and hurdles’ women have to jump to be involved in sport.
“I have a daughter and I want her to have every single opportunity in the world,” Molik said.
“I am fortunate enough to be involved in tennis but my broader goal and wish is to have every single female sport in Australia on equal terms with the men’s counterparts.”
Molik, who was joined by netballer, Nat Medhurst and Freo AFLW player Kiara Bowers on a panel for the luncheon, said it was inspiring to see a room full of people committed to empowering women.
“I loved it, it was a room full of inspirational people who are here to celebrate women, and in particular women in sport,” Molik said.
Molik said she was in awe of Kiara’s story and journey in the AFLW so far and said it was critical players like her were given the opportunity to have their voices heard.
Bowers talked about her daily routine of a 5am wake-up, before a full day's work as a carpentry apprentice, then fitting in training and rarely being home before 10pm.
“I think it is quite amazing and I don’t think anyone would understand until they have heard these stories,” Molik said.
“I don’t think there are many individuals out there that could continue to have such a thirst for the sport and be able to compete at the highest level under those circumstances.
“You sacrifice so much in your life, just imagine how good the sport could be if the women could train as much as the men do."